Well-maintained Wipers Will Keep You In Clear

July 22, 1999|By Cox News Service

For those who have to fight the daily traffic wars, rain is just one more unwelcome inconvenience. Though we can't control the weather, and there are no quick fixes for traffic, here is one thing that you can do to your car that might make your rainy journey a bit less stressful and certainly safer.

Check your windshield wiper blades.

If you can't see completely what's in front of you, how are you going to avoid having an unwelcome introduction to it? It's a painless process and well worth the effort.

Have you noticed recently that when you turn on your wipers, instead of improving your vision, they just sort of smear the water and road film around? Do they seem to make your vision worse? If so, it's time for new wiper blades. Determining if you need them is a simple process.

First, inspect them visually. If you see any dryness or cracking in the blades' rubber surface, it's time to toss them.

If they appear to be in good condition but don't seem to be doing their job, check to see if they are exposure hardened. Is their consistency more like a brick than like a soft, pliable loaf of bread?

Poke the surface of the blade; if your fingernail doesn't make an impression, it's time to replace your blades.

Wiper blades are inexpensive for the service they provide.

Have you ever tried driving in a rainstorm without wipers? Ignore your blades long enough, and they will crumble before your eyes.

Wiper blades are relatively simple to install. You can pick most of them up at any large discount store or auto parts store. And they cost only a few dollars. Auto parts stores can help with installation.

Also, make sure that you replace all your wiper blades at the same time, including the one on the back window. People often forget about this blade. When the rear blade is deteriorated, the wiper arm frequently scores the back glass. It can be an expensive experience.